Sample Collection

Learn everything you need to know about collecting and shipping samples

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What type of sample collection kits does Dante Genomics provide?

  • Tasso M20, Tasso SST non-invasive blood collection devices
  • GenFix Saliva non-invasive collection kits and Dnagenotek Saliva collection kits
  • Isohelix buccal swabs kits

What are the sample types that are accepted by Dante Genomics for genetic testing?

The sample types that are accepted by Dante Genomics for genetic testing include:

  • Dried Blood samples collected through Tasso non-invasive methods
  • Dried Blood samples collected through DBS cards (we suggest GR226 - PerkinElmer DBS Dry Blood Spot collection kit)
  • Fresh Whole Blood Samples, collected in EDTA or streck tubes
  • Saliva samples
  • Extracted gDNA samples
  • Extracted RNA samples
  • Pre-made libraries or pools
  • FFPE blocks or slides for tumor profiling analysis
  • Cell pellets or Cell lines

What sample volume per test is required?

  • For Whole Genome Sequencing with short reads technology, Dante Genomics requires a sample volume of 50 to 200 microliters (uL) of DNA. In case of long reads technology, Dante Genomics requires a sample volume of 110-120 ul.
  • RNA Requirement for Short Reads Technology is a Volume Range of 100-200 μl With this sample volume, we can perform a comprehensive analysis of an individual's entire genetic makeup, providing valuable information for the diagnosis and treatment of various medical conditions.
  • For Dried Blood samples, the requirement is to completely fill in all the spots (4 spots for Tasso M20, 5 spots for DBS Card).
  • For Saliva samples the requirement is to spit into the tube until the level of the liquid reaches the 4 ml line. It means the collected saliva will be 2ml.
  • For Fresh Whole Blood samples the requirement is to collect at least 5 ml of blood.
  • For FFPE samples, 1 entire block of tumor tissue or at least 5 unstained slides (5 μm sections minimum) are required. Optimal tumor size is 30 mm², minimum 14 mm². Minimum volume is 0.14 mm³.
  • In case you are sending pre-made libraries or pools, please fill in the following mandatory form. The minimum requested volume is ≥ 20 ul.
  • In case of Cell pellets, minimum requirement is 5 x 10^6 cultured cells

What are the sample processing and storage requirements?

  • For Whole Genome Sequencing, Dante Genomics requires that the samples are collected and stored in a way that ensures the integrity of the DNA. This typically includes maintaining a correct volume of the sample and avoiding any conditions that might degrade the DNA such as extreme temperatures or exposure to harmful chemicals.
  • For saliva and dried blood samples, they can be shipped at room temperature, but it is recommended to use a cold pack to maintain the quality of the sample. It is also recommended to store the samples in the correct conditions recommended by the manufacturer, and to transport the samples as soon as possible.
  • For Fresh Whole Blood Samples, store the samples at a temperature range of 2-8 degrees Celsius (refrigerated), avoiding freezing. During transportation, it is recommended to include cool gel packs to maintain the desired temperature range.
  • RNA, Libraries or pools of Libraries samples should be kept in dry ice during shipment. DNA samples can be shipped at 2-8 °C (Packing with ice packs/blue ice). For DNA and RNA samples, Dante Labs accepts 1.5 ml or 2 ml flip-top DNase- and RNase-free microcentrifuge tubes. Please use Parafilm to seal each tube before packaging.
  • FFPE blocks or slides for tumor profiling analysis can be shipped at room temperature.

  • Cell pellets or Cell lines need to be shipped in dry ice as dry pellets.

What kind of tubes are needed for blood collection?

For Fresh Whole Blood Collection, we recommend EDTA (Purple Top) vacutainer. Also Streck Tubes are accepted.

Alternatively, for Whole Genome Sequencing at Dante Genomics, we process dried blood spot (DBS) samples using blood Tasso kits. These kits typically include a special card or filter paper on which a small amount of blood is applied. The blood is allowed to dry, and the resulting DBS sample can be collected and stored in a small container such as a plastic bag or a tube. Tasso kits are known for their ease of use, and they are specifically designed for dried blood spot collection.